As a die-hard KISS fan for well over a decade, I wish I could sing COS's praises. But I simply cannot as it's not a KISS album. I'm afraid they have fallen back into the "let's follow what's hot now" attitude they had in the late 70s and mid 80s, as the entire CD has a heavy grunge feel.

My biggest question is why the guys were so down as their songwriting reflects. For me, KISS music has always been a release. But not COS. It's a downer. I don't have problems with darker subjects, but there's nothing on the album that even comes close to a feel good, let's party rocker. Where's the "I Stole Your Love," "Take it Off," "Lick it Up," "Room Service," attitude? It simply doesn't exist.

Another complaint I have is with many of the choruses. I've always been proud that KISS rarely has a repetitive, boring chorus. I love old Motley Crue, but as an example, they sing, "She's got looks that kill" about a hundred times. At least KISS choruses are a bit more intricate ("Heaven's on Fire"). But COS features a handful of choruses and lyrics in general that aren't up to that tongue-and-cheek, smirky style that makes KISS songwriting so strong (remember, "I wanna put my log in your fireplace" from "Burn Bitch Burn"?)

Revenge was a great album. Songs like "Spit" brought back the days when Gene and Paul sang together, like "Shout it Out Loud" and "Let Me Know." But there's none of that on the album.

I'm simply disappointed and frustrated. My loyality to the band will never wane, but that doesn't mean I've got to love everything they do. I'm betting everything on the next album. Let's get back to our roots, guys, like you did with Revenge, and really kick ass. I know the musicianship is there, the songwriting is certainly there, and there's never been a question about the showmanship. So let's produce a real KISS album!!